Daedong, the parent company of KIOTI, celebrates its 78th anniversary
today, having been founded in 1947.
The 18th-century French philosopher Voltaire said, “The uncertain future
eventually gives us today's opportunities through change.” As Daedong marks its
78th anniversary in 2025, we are embracing new opportunities born from the
changes and challenges we have faced. As industries and technologies evolve and
the boundaries of agriculture expand, Daedong is seizing these transformations
to move forward.
We recognize that we live in an era where AI, robotics, and autonomous driving
are unstoppable currents, and Daedong is rising on this wave of massive change
by promoting our five major future businesses.
Since 2020, we’ve been pursuing "business innovation," and I thank
every member of Daedong for your tireless dedication to that cause.
We are currently in an era of unprecedented rapid change. Global geopolitical
instability and shifts in government policy have a direct impact on our
profits. Nevertheless, change is both a challenge and an opportunity. Our
“business innovation” is not just a simple slogan—it is a deliberate decision
to prepare for the future. I'd like to share a few points for successful
innovation.
First, we must always push forward with drastic cost reduction. We must build a
stable cost structure based on fixed cost improvement. Price competitiveness is
a short-term strategy, but innovation in fundamental cost structures is a core
strategy for long-term competitiveness.
Second, all team members need to enhance their understanding of and engage with
our future businesses. Our direction is no longer simple expansion but
transformation. The launch of Daedong Lab and Daedong Mobility is not just
organizational expansion—it represents a full-scale shift toward innovation.
For example, our autonomous tractor RT100 and
the 4.5-ton electric cargo truck are testaments to our global technological
leadership.
Lastly, innovation in how we work—‘Work Innovation’—is essential. It’s not just
about working on individual tasks; how we work together is crucial. Results do
not come from outdated methods. Collaboration between generations, departments,
and new and existing business units is essential. Respect, open-mindedness, and
inclusion will guide us in this journey together.
There is a Chinese proverb: “If you do not move forward, you fall behind.”
Change offers numerous opportunities. Those who seize them are the ones who are
truly prepared.
We now know that our direction aligns with the flow of the times. What matters
now is speed and execution. Real change demands that we stay focused and
prepare relentlessly for the next leap.
On this 78th anniversary, let us all move forward with one heart toward seizing
future opportunities and strive together to make Daedong a sustainable company
that lasts beyond its 80th and 100th anniversaries.
Sincerely congratulating Daedong's 78th anniversary.
